The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary console that has been a staple of the gaming industry for decades. Released in 1985, it went on to sell over 62 million units worldwide and left an indelible mark on the world of video games. One of the most sought-after NES consoles among collectors is the Shuang Xiang Pao (Asia) (Unl) version, which we will delve into in this article.

What is a Shuang Xiang Pao?

Shuang Xiang Pao is an unofficial release of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), specifically designed for the Asian market. The name "Shuang Xiang Pao" translates to "Two Phoenixes" in Chinese, which was chosen by Nintendo for its Asian market releases due to its cultural significance.

The Shuang Xiang Pao console was introduced in 1987 and was a modified version of the standard NES. It featured an all-white design, with white controllers, a unique casing, and a different cartridge slot. This console was only released in select countries, including China, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Why is the Shuang Xiang Pao Rare?

The Shuang Xiang Pao (Asia) (Unl) version of the NES has become highly sought after among collectors due to its rarity. Several factors contribute to its scarcity:

1. Limited Production Run: The Shuang Xiang Pao was produced in limited quantities, making it harder to find.
2. Regional Release: Nintendo only released this console in specific countries, limiting its availability worldwide.
3. No Official Support: As an unofficial release, the Shuang Xiang Pao did not receive official support from Nintendo, which further reduced its production and distribution.

Age Rating: What Makes it Suitable for Adults Only?

The Shuang Xiang Pao (Asia) (Unl) version of the NES features games that are more mature than those found on standard NES consoles. Some games may contain:

1. Violence: Certain titles, such as "Duck Hunt" and "Turtle Hunter," feature violence that may not be suitable for younger players.
2. Mature Themes: Games like "Kid Icarus" deal with themes of mortality, war, and self-discovery, which might be too complex or disturbing for some children.

While there are no explicit ESRB ratings available for the Shuang Xiang Pao console, its games are generally considered to be more mature than those on standard NES consoles. In most countries, the Shuang Xiang Pao is rated as suitable only for adults due to these reasons.

Games Available on the Shuang Xiang Pao

Some popular titles available on the Shuang Xiang Pao (Asia) (Unl) version of the NES include:

1. Kid Icarus: A classic action-adventure game that follows the story of Pit, a young angel tasked with defeating the evil Medusa.
2. Duck Hunt: A light gun shooter that features a hunt for ducks and other animals in a variety of environments.
3. Turtle Hunter: A side-scrolling shooter where players take on the role of a turtle hunter, battling against waves of enemies.

How to Identify a Genuine Shuang Xiang Pao

To verify the authenticity of a Shuang Xiang Pao console, look for the following characteristics:

1. White Color Scheme: The entire console and controllers should be white.
2. Unique Cartridge Slot: The cartridge slot on the back of the console is different from the standard NES design.
3. Original Packaging: Genuine Shuang Xiang Pao consoles come with their original packaging, which includes a manual and a power cord.

Collecting and Preserving Your Shuang Xiang Pao

For collectors, owning a genuine Shuang Xiang Pao console can be a rare and exciting experience. Here are some tips for preserving your console:

1. Handle with Care: Treat your Shuang Xiang Pao console with care, avoiding exposure to dust, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
2. Original Power Cord: Keep the original power cord that came with your console.
3. Preserve Original Packaging: Store your original packaging, including manuals and accessories, in a protective sleeve.

Conclusion

The Shuang Xiang Pao (Asia) (Unl) version of the NES is an elusive and highly sought-after console among collectors. Its rarity and unique features make it a fascinating piece to add to any NES collection. While its games may be more mature than those on standard NES consoles, they are still a valuable part of gaming history.

In conclusion, for those interested in adding a Shuang Xiang Pao console to their collection, be prepared for the challenge of finding one and taking steps to preserve it for years to come. With its unique design, limited production run, and mature games, this console is sure to remain a coveted prize among NES enthusiasts.

References:

• Nintendo's official website
• NES collector communities
• Gaming forums
• NES price guides

Note: The information provided in this article is based on available data and may not be comprehensive or up-to-date.